Microsoft is making further refinements to Windows 11 in preparation for the release of Windows 12. One of the features that will be deprecated in future releases is P2P Win32 services. These services enable peer-to-peer networking on Windows, allowing devices to interact directly without the need for a central server.

P2P Win32 services have been used in legacy apps for tasks such as file sharing, online gaming, and instant messaging. The integral components within the Windows P2P framework include the Peer Name Resolution Protocol (PNRP), Peer Networking Grouping, and Peer Networking Identity Manager. PNRP allows devices to register and determine names without relying on centralized DNS servers. Peer Networking Grouping handles the creation of peer-to-peer groups, which can be open to all or restricted to select members. Peer Networking Identity Manager manages device identities, certificates, and trust links between peers and their groups.

These changes are expected to be implemented in the upcoming Windows 11 23H2 update. This update will bring various enhancements to the Taskbar, Start menu, and File Explorer. Although not as extensive as the previous update, the Windows 11 23H2 update includes improvements to the Taskbar, Start menu, File Explorer, and Windows Copilot. Additionally, the Microsoft Teams (free version) will replace Chat in the taskbar, and there will be a new toggle for Casting in the Action Center. The update also allows users to change the name of the device in Nearby Share.

Microsoft has already started testing the Windows 11 23H2 update with testers using the Microsoft 365 environment. The update is expected to be rolled out to supported hardware in the coming weeks. However, if you can’t wait, you can join the Release Preview Channel to try it today.